The Gwaun Valley: A Pembrokeshire Dog Walk
Make sure to grab a pint at Bessie's pub during your day out here
With this Pembrokeshire dog walk, you'll venture deep into the mystical landscape of the region's countryside with an undulating hillside that is steeped in fascinating history. This is the land where the mythical fables of the Welsh Mabinogion take place and legend has it that King Arthur and the famous wizard Merlin once roamed.
The Gwaun Valley is a magical, secret wooded valley near Fishguard. It is truly magical and enchanting to witness such beauty within our Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This superb and relaxing walk is not complete without a visit to the unique Dyffryn Arms, more affectionately known as ‘Bessie's Pub’. Sit back and relax in the ‘sitting room’ and be served original, real ale through a hatch, one not to be missed. Bessie welcomes your pooch to cosy up with her by the fire during the chillier months too!
The Route
Upon leaving the car park, follow the distinct track (the most obvious route to take) and proceed along this path beside the edge of the greenery of Pontfaen Woods. Upon reaching a crossroad, keep straight ahead as it descends, taking a left turn around a few farm buildings.
You will notice a stile ahead which you are not required to take. Instead, take a right crossing a footbridge alongside a ford to follow the route down a lane. Turn right aside a bridleway taking no notice of the gate and stile which you can see ahead of you. Continue to progress up the climbing hill, keeping left until you reach a signpost.
Turn right here to continue along the track heading straight for the Afon Cwmau, where you will eventually meet the Afon Gwaun at the below valley. Traverse along the
footbridge, up a few more steps and take a right turn carrying on through the rustling trees past the waterfalls to your right.
You will come across two posts here which indicate shorter alternative routes. To keep along the longer route, proceed past these posts and continue on ahead.
Finally, you will reach the road having passed the second of the shorter route alternatives. Turn right here to return to the car park. If you wish, you can instead take a left turn, which will lead you to pay a visit to the small, St Brynach Church of Pontfaen.
Route Distance
This Pembrokeshire dog walk is approximately 3 miles in length.
Facilities
Call into The Dyffryn Arms to quench your thirst after a stroll along the pretty river here. Public toilets are a drive away in Fishguard, Newport and Maenclochog.
How to find it
From Fishguard, head east along the B4313 to Pontfaen. Drive downhill into the village slowing down as you pass a "Cwm Gwaun" sign; the public car park is just on your right after this sign.
Parking
You can park for free at Pontfaen Car Park.
Start/Finish
Pontfaen Car Park.
Coastal Cottages Dog Friendly Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire & West Wales
If you're searching for a dog friendly holiday cottage in Pembrokeshire, then look no further, we've got an amazing selection of self-catering dog-friendly holiday cottages located throughout Pembrokeshire. - Please Note: There is a charge of £15 per dog per week or short break
